Are ‘traditional’ detective skills useful for combating online piracy?
“Most illegal downloading is done by consumers from p2p networks, but putting that to one side, digital piracy has blurred the lines between “commercial pirate” and consumer. The operation against OiNK was a case in point, a profitable criminal enterprise, but also used by consumers. As a former detective, I can assure you that the traditional skills are essential. Whether it’s a physical or digital investigation, the premise is the same: we gather evidence of illegal activity and then identify the persons behind it using overt and covert methods. Law enforcement officers need clear, watertight evidence that stands up to court scrutiny, and for that detective skills and a deep understanding of the legal system are essential.” – ENDS – Further information: BPI Communications Department The BPI (formerly known as British Phonographic Industry) represents the British recorded music business.
